SHIVA PROTECTED BY NAGA Brass Bronze India , 18th century Dimensions: Height 20 cm Weight: 941,3 grams This statue shows Shiva's head attached on a stepped platform with broader base and decorative incisions. In front of the head is a small lingam, also representative of Shiva the destroyer. Shiva's face is smiling and his eyes are open, a thin, wavy moustache runs along his cheeks and his high eyebrows also end in a little wave. Small pendants are hanging from his ears and the face is framed by a cover and headdress. The nose is pointy and distinctive, the head is slightly leaning backwards. A three-headed serpent called Naga forms a protective hood over Shiva's head. The bronze can be separated into three pieces.